Hiccups In Dogs?

Hiccups are common in humans, but how about in dogs? Canines, like humans, experience hiccups.

What Causes Hiccups In Dogs?

In dogs, hiccups are caused by a spasm in the diaphragm, the muscle beneath the lungs, just as it is in humans. The glottis, the opening between the vocal cords, closes abruptly as a result of the spasm. This produces a "hic" sound. Puppies can get hiccups if they eat or drink too quickly, if they are tired, if they are overly excited, or if they are too cold.

Scientists are baffled as to why humans, dogs, and other mammals hiccup. One theory holds that hiccups are a byproduct of our development in utero. Fetal hiccups have been observed in a variety of mammalian species. It's possible that hiccuping in the womb is a way for the baby's breathing muscles to be tested.

This theory could explain why puppies are much more prone to hiccups than adult dogs. Your puppy will most likely hiccup less frequently or not at all as he grows older.

Another theory holds that hiccups are your puppy's way of getting rid of gas or an upset stomach.

How Can You Get Rid Of Dog Hiccups?

Hiccups typically resolve on their own. Of course, there are numerous wives' tales about how to get rid of human hiccups, such as holding your breath, pulling on your tongue, or being scared. However, no one knows if these actually work.
It's pointless to try to scare your dog or pull his tongue to make his hiccups go away. Scaring or tongue pulling (or whatever other remedy you use) will most likely irritate him more than the hiccups.
However, there are three things you can do to help your hiccuping pup.

1. Relaxed Irregular Breathing Assist your dog's breathing pattern in becoming more consistent and rhythmic. Usually, if you get him to lie on his back and give him a nice tummy rub, the hiccups will go away.
2. Drink plenty of water. Drinking water, like humans, can help with hiccups. Just make sure your dog drinks it slowly and calmly.
3. Take Your Time at Dinner. Hiccups can occur if your dog eats too quickly. To avoid hiccups, feed him smaller portions at a time.

What If Your Dog Hiccups Do Not Go Away?

If your dog has hiccups for more than a few hours, or if the hiccups change to a wheezing sound, causing irregular or difficult breathing, take him to the vet. Intractable hiccups could be a sign of something more serious.

Have you ever noticed your dog hiccuping, how did you stopped it? Drop your comment below!